Former Camp Gordon Johnston

KEMRON was contracted by the USAESCH to conduct a Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) for 13 Munitions Response Sites (MRS) at the former Camp Gordon Johnston (CGJ). Several distinct approaches were used to determine the nature and extent of munitions and explosives of concern (MEC) and munitions constituents (MC) at each MRS. KEMRON utilized “Mag and Dig”, anomaly count transects and digital geophysical mapping (DGM) to locate subsurface anomalies.

A Removal Action (RA) was conducted prior to the RI at three of the MRSs at the former CGJ. Due to the presence of munitions near the boundaries of two of these MRSs, KEMRON proposed that “Mag and Dig” transects be conducted in a radial pattern to further delineate munitions at these MRSs. In addition, soil and groundwater samples were collected inside these MRSs to determine if MCs were present. KEMRON successfully determined the nature and extent of MEC and MC contamination at each site.

KEMRON developed the unique approach of using anomaly count transects to determine areas where there was an elevated density of subsurface anomalies. By using this approach, DGM grids could be surveyed in areas where there would be an increased likelihood of locating munitions items. This method was also used at two MRSs that were identified as small arms ranges. In addition to the information collected from the anomaly count transects, KEMRON identified physical features of a firing range to identify areas where soils samples were collected and analyzed for lead.

One of the most challenging MRSs was the Alligator Point Gunnery Range due to the fact that the MRS covered both land and water totaling 3,689 acres. The water portion of the MRS was in the Gulf of Mexico and encompassed approximately 3,500 acres. KEMRON oversaw the work of two subcontractors in order to perform the underwater DGM investigation and diving operations. KEMRON designed an approach that identified concentrated areas of MEC and MD by conducting preliminary transects to locate potential concentrations of munitions. Based upon the results of the intrusive investigation of identified anomalies, follow up transects and subsequent intrusive investigations were conducted to determine the extent of the MEC contamination. Due to the presence of protected bird and turtle species, field activities at this MRS were conducted during periods that were less likely to interfere with nesting activities of these species. As a result of the RI at this MRS, a presumed target area was identified and the proposed boundary of the MRS was reduced to approximately 800 acres.

KEMRON arranged the Technical Project Planning (TPP) meetings and successfully coordinated with the residents and business owners within the CGJ investigation area. The goals of the RI were accomplished at each of the MRSs with minimal disruption to the residents in the investigation area.